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7 real things you can do right now about the catastrophe in Aleppo.

Syrian government troops are attempting to capture the remaining sections of Aleppo, and its citizens are in grave danger.  

Aleppo Residents flee rebel-held areas of the city. Photo by Karam Al-Masri/Getty Images.

The humanitarian disaster, which has been ongoing for months, has gotten far worse in the past few days, with terrified residents, caught between government forces, Russian airstrikes, and rebel forces tweeting desperate pleas for help and final messages to loved ones. Reports of women committing suicide to avoid being raped and civilians being executed by regime forces have begun to filter out of the city.


Meanwhile, the once-thriving region has been reduced to rubble and chaos over the course of the past several months. Russia has announced an end to the military operation, claiming victory, and reports of a cease-fire between government and rebel forces have been issued, but both have yet to be confirmed by the United Nations at the time of this writing. 50,000 civilians are still believed to be in the eastern part of the city.

It's easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed and want to turn away from a story like this. The news is bleak — and likely to get bleaker. But those of us with the good fortune to live in safety have a responsibility to do what we can to help. And there are ways to help.

Most involve donating to organizations that are on the ground in or around Aleppo. We know not everyone has money to spare, but if you can make it work, providing much needed funds to these organizations is the most efficient way to assist at a crucial moment like this.

1. Support the White Helmets.

The White Helmets respond to the aftermath of an airstrike. Photo by Mohamed Al-Bakour/Getty Images.

Led by Raed Al-Saleh, this homegrown search-and-rescue force, which operates in rebel-controlled Syria, including Aleppo, has saved tens of thousands of their countrymen over the course of the conflict — pulling bombing victims out of rubble, raising money for prosthetics, and supporting the families of fallen comrades.

Some critics of the organization argue that the group hides a political mission, which advocates for regime change and policies that have exacerbated the violence. But right now, they're saving lives, and in a crisis moment, that matters more.

You can donate on their website.

2. Support Doctors Without Borders.

The aftermath of the destruction of a Doctors Without Borders-supported hospital in Syria. Photo by Omar Haj Kadour/Getty Images.

The global, nonpartisan medical relief organization is still active on the ground across the country, providing local medical facilities, which have been decimated by the war, with equipment, supplies, and, where possible, personnel.

You can give them money here.

3. Support the Syrian American Medical Society.

Medical professionals protest near the United Nations. Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images.

The group runs dozens of medical operations in Syria and the countries that have taken in the largest share of refugees from the war, treating nearly 3 million Syrians in 2015.

You can sign up to volunteer or donate here.

4. Support the International Rescue Committee.

The IRC supports people who flee war and conflict in countries around the world, including Syrian refugees.

Here's how to support them in turn.

5. Support Save the Children.

Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images.

Save the Children works with internally displaced and refugee children and families affected by the conflict.

You can read more about what they're doing and pledge support here.

6. Go to a protest, or start one.

Londoners and residents of Istanbul are taking to the streets to demand action from local officials on the growing crisis.

If you live in those cities, join them to demand action from local officials. Or organize a protest effort where you are.

7. Support refugees.

Aleppo residents flee the rebel-held section of town. hoto by Karam Al-Masri/Getty Images.

There are millions of them all over the world. The terrorization and dismemberment of Aleppo? This is what they're fleeing. This exactly.

Since refugees from the conflict started flooding into the West in 2011, their fate has become a political football, exploited by candidates and causes in countries across Europe and North America to stoke fear and win elections. This should stop. The most compassionate thing we can do is to put aside our fears of terror and the unfamiliar and give them a chance to rebuild their lives among us. And to give those who still suffer on the ground hope that there's a better life available to them, should they manage to escape.

You can donate to the UN Refugee Agency. Or Questscope, which provides education and counseling resources to refugees living in Jordan. Or the Migrant Offshore Aid Station, which helps shepherd refugees making the perilous sea-crossing into Europe to safety.

More importantly, you can call your senator or congressperson and tell them that you won't support them if they don't support expanding the U.S.'s Refugee Admissions program to admit more than the woefully inadequate 10,000 Syrians we resettled in 2016.

What's happening in Aleppo isn't just a humanitarian tragedy, it's a moral crisis. It's a time to put aside our fears and apathy, to get real, and to act as best and as effectively as each of us can.

If we don't, we'll never stop asking ourselves why we didn't.

Planet

Easy (and free!) ways to save the ocean

The ocean is the heart of our planet. It needs our help to be healthy.

Ocean Wise

Volunteers at a local shoreline cleanup

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The ocean covers over 71% of the Earth’s surface and serves as our planet’s heart. Ocean currents circulate vital heat, moisture, and nutrients around the globe to influence and regulate our climate, similar to the human circulatory system. Cool, right?

Our ocean systems provide us with everything from fresh oxygen to fresh food. We need it to survive and thrive—and when the ocean struggles to function healthfully, the whole world is affected.

Pollution, overfishing, and climate change are the three biggest challenges preventing the ocean from doing its job, and it needs our help now more than ever. Humans created the problem; now humans are responsible for solving it.

#BeOceanWise is a global rallying cry to do what you can for the ocean, because we need the ocean and the ocean needs us. If you’re wondering how—or if—you can make a difference, the answer is a resounding YES. There are a myriad of ways you can help, even if you don’t live near a body of water. For example, you can focus on reducing the amount of plastic you purchase for yourself or your family.

Another easy way to help clean up our oceans is to be aware of what’s known as the “dirty dozen.” Every year, scientists release an updated list of the most-found litter scattered along shorelines. The biggest culprit? Single-use beverage and food items such as foam cups, straws, bottle caps, and cigarette butts. If you can’t cut single-use plastic out of your life completely, we understand. Just make sure to correctly recycle plastic when you are finished using it. A staggering 3 million tons of plastic ends up in our oceans annually. Imagine the difference we could make if everyone recycled!

The 2022 "Dirty Dozen" ListOcean Wise

If you live near a shoreline, help clean it up! Organize or join an effort to take action and make a positive impact in your community alongside your friends, family, or colleagues. You can also tag @oceanwise on social if you spot a beach that needs some love. The location will be added to Ocean Wise’s system so you can submit data on the litter found during future Shoreline Cleanups. This data helps Ocean Wise work with businesses and governments to stop plastic pollution at its source. In Canada, Ocean Wise data helped inform a federal ban on unnecessary single-use plastics. Small but important actions like these greatly help reduce the litter that ends up in our ocean.

Ocean Wise, a conservation organization on a mission to restore and protect our oceans, is focused on empowering and educating everyone from individuals to governments on how to protect our waters. They are making conservation happen through five big initiatives: monitoring and protecting whales, fighting climate change and restoring biodiversity, innovating for a plastic-free ocean, protecting and restoring fish stocks, and finally, educating and empowering youth. The non-profit believes that in order to rebuild a resilient and vibrant ocean within the next ten years, everyone needs to take action.

Become an Ocean Wise ally and share your knowledge with others. The more people who know how badly the ocean needs our help, the better! Now is a great time to commit to being a part of something bigger and get our oceans healthy again.

Pets

Family brings home the wrong dog from daycare until their cats saved the day

A quick trip to the vet confirmed the cats' and family's suspicions.

Family accidentally brings wrong dog home but their cats knew

It's not a secret that nearly all golden retrievers are identical. Honestly, magic has to be involved for owners to know which one belongs to them when more than one golden retriever is around. Seriously, how do they all seem have the same face? It's like someone fell asleep on the copy machine when they were being created.

Outside of collars, harnesses and bandanas, immediately identifying the dog that belongs to you has to be a secret skill because at first glance, their personalities are also super similar. That's why it's not surprising when one family dropped off their sweet golden pooch at daycare and to be groomed, they didn't notice the daycare sent out the wrong dog.

See, not even their human parents can tell them apart because when the swapped dog got home, nothing seemed odd to the owners at first. She was freshly groomed so any small differences were quickly brushed off. But this accidental doppelgänger wasn't fooling her feline siblings.

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Vivid Seats is your gateway to premium live experiences

With countless unique events at your fingertips, Vivid Seats is the ultimate playground for event enthusiasts.

The lights dim, the crowd erupts into cheers, and your heart is racing with pure, unadulterated excitement. Remember that magical night under a canopy of twinkling stars, with your favorite band playing live, where the electrifying energy in the air made you feel truly alive? Those moments of joy, laughter, and perhaps a shared glance with a fellow fan turn into cherished memories, etched in your mind forever.

Now, imagine stepping into a vibrant world where such moments aren't just once-in-a-lifetime experiences but a regular joy. This is where Vivid Seats steps in, a gateway to not just witness but truly live these awe-inspiring moments. With a remarkable array of events and a seamless journey from choosing an event to stepping into the venue, Vivid Seats promises not just tickets but keys to unforgettable experiences, opening doors to a world where every fan finds their heart's desire. Vivid Seats crafts memories that are as vivid as life itself!

Discover a World of Events with Vivid Seats

Imagine having a golden ticket that unlocks a world where the music of your favorite band resonates and NFL action unfolds right before your eyes. At Vivid Seats, we turn this dream into reality, offering access to over a million unique events. It's not just a ticket; it's your passport to unforgettable experiences!

Navigating this vast array of events is a breeze with Vivid Seats. Our platform is designed with you in mind, making it easy to find and book the events you love. With a user-friendly interface and exciting features, we ensure your journey from choosing to attending an event is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Your Trusted Partner in Live Entertainment

Diving into the whirlwind of live events is now a breeze with Vivid Seats by your side. They have a rock-solid 100% buyer guarantee. It promises you valid and authentic tickets every time, wiping away those nagging worries about online ticket purchases. And the transactions are 100% safe, keeping your precious information secured. It doesn't end there! In case you stumble upon any hitches, there's a friendly team ready to assist you and ensure your journey is a smooth one.

But Vivid Seats is not just a ticket provider; it's your go-to source for the latest buzz in the entertainment sphere. Whether you're into foot-tapping Latin beats, thrilling touchdowns, or sensational pop concerts, the Vivid Seats blog is your treasure trove of information. It keeps you in the loop with the freshest updates on tour dates, NFL schedules, and much more, ensuring you're always ahead in planning your next vivacious outing.

Taking Customer Service to the Next Level

Stepping up in the game of offering exceptional experiences, Vivid Seats has got your back with their top-notch customer service. Imagine having a friend who's always there to help you score the best seats, any day, anytime! With extended business hours, you can reach out and expect a helpful hand to assist you, be it a ticket reissuing dilemma or other concerns. They are your friendly guide to the world of live events, always ready to lend a helping hand.

And don't sweat those last-minute ticket hunts; Vivid Seats has mastered the art of delivering happiness right on time. Even if the clock is ticking, they maneuver skillfully to ensure your tickets reach you before the event kicks off. No more nail-biting moments, only the joyful anticipation of a great time ahead. Vivid Seats is your trusted ally in crafting unforgettable moments, sprinkled with ease and convenience!

A “Rewarding” Journey

There is no thrill like an amazing live event! That’s why Vivid Seats devised a fantastic rewards program where every ticket you buy gets you a step closer to even more spectacular experiences.

With each ticket you snag, you're not just securing a seat but also collecting stamps that take you closer to delightful rewards. It's as simple as "Collect, Redeem, Repeat!" Just grab any ticket to any event you fancy, and lo and behold, stamps will start piling up in your account automatically, paving the way to exciting Reward Credits. These credits are your golden ticket to even more exhilarating events, easily redeemable through the Vivid Seats app.

But hold on, the fun doesn't stop there! You see, the more you dive into these live experiences, the higher you climb up the loyalty ladder. Starting as a 'Fan', where birthday treats await, you could escalate to a 'Rising Star' with two years of reward credit validity. Pump up the game to be a 'Super Fan' and see your credits last for three glorious years. And for the true aficionados, the 'Icon' level unfolds with a splendid four-year span to use your credits and enjoy surprise upgrades.

Join the Vivid Seats Community

Have you ever wanted to be part of a club where excitement never ends? Well, guess what? You're invited to join a vibrant family of over 15 million delighted fans, just like you, at Vivid Seats. With Vivid Seats, you don't just attend events; you create lasting memories.

With Vivid Seats, you get to be part of a thriving community where every live event becomes a canvas of colorful and shared experiences. You don't just watch from afar; you dive in!

Ready to step into a world brimming with thrilling events? Click here to visit the Vivid Seats website now and start your adventure. Your journey to vibrant and memorable experiences begins with a simple click. Let's get this party started!

Sandra Maria/Youtube, Official Lives & Music Videos/Youtube

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The music of Queen has a profound visceral effect on everyone. Few pieces of art can cause complete strangers to put aside their differences and come together in song, but by golly, “Bohemian Rhapsody” is one of them. It would be cheesy if it weren’t so absolutely beautiful.

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Video of sisters trying to fix a DIY haircut perfectly captures the chaos of sisterhood

“This is THE sisters experience…you captured the whole thing."

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Ask any group of sisters what it was like growing up with each other, and they will undoubtedly use the word chaos. Girlhood in itself is a bit of a delightfully feral time. Add yet another wild child (or more) into the mix, and you never know what’s going to happen.

But there’s also a beautiful loyalty. Sure, sisters can turn from friends to enemies on a dime, but in those purer moments, you’ll see them stop at nothing to help one another.

And it’s all these aspects, and everywhere in between, that were captured in a hilarious TikTok as three sisters banded together to fix a DIY haircut gone wrong…the day before school picture day, no less.
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Mom tells wild story of how her daughter kidnapped a 'chocolate baby' while out grocery shopping

People have a sneaking suspicion that the little girl has seen 'Corina, Corina' one too many times.

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Sometimes we hear a story that makes us collectively confused. Should we be offended? Laugh? Donate to a parents future bail fund for their children? It's really a toss up but the consensus on this mom's eyebrow raising story is that laughter and bail money are both appropriate responses.

Maranda Arbogast, a mom that runs the TikTok page, momma.chaos, shared a hilariously mortifying story of a time she took her three daughters grocery shopping and somehow wound up in a, "one of these things is not like the others" moment. The mom of three leads into the story by explaining that she is raising children that will likely have run ins with the law.

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Period simulators gave cis-gendered men a painful glimpse of what women go through on a monthly basis. But what about going through life with an actual human growing in their belly?

That’s where the watermelon challenge comes in.

TikTok’s watermelon challenge is a simple concept, where dads-to-be strap watermelons, weighing somewhere around 14 pounds, onto their bellies in order to simulate what it’s like for pregnant moms. Bonus point for taping mangos onto the chest because #lactation.

The results are both hilarious and illuminating.

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